Credential Recognition for Refugees and Immigrants: Country-by-Country Pathways
Introduction
One of the most significant barriers to refugee and immigrant employment is credential recognition. A qualified doctor, engineer, or teacher may arrive in a new country only to find their qualifications are not recognised, forcing them into low-skilled work far below their capability. This guide provides country-specific pathways for credential recognition.
United States
General Academic Credentials
- World Education Services (WES): The most widely used credential evaluation service. Costs $160–$285. Processing time: 7 business days (standard) to 20 days.
- Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE): Alternative evaluation service. Costs $160–$235.
- Both produce equivalency reports comparing foreign qualifications to US standards
Regulated Professions
- Medicine: Must pass USMLE Steps 1, 2, and 3, then complete a residency. Foreign medical graduates apply through ECFMG.
- Engineering: Credentials evaluated by state licensing boards. Many states accept FE exam + experience in lieu of local degree.
- Teaching: Each state has its own teacher certification process. Many require additional coursework.
- Nursing: Must pass NCLEX-RN. CGFNS provides credential evaluation for nurses.